MacArthur students get hands-on experience with Habitat for Humanity

The program prepares students for a career in the electrical industry.

Author:
Jaleesa Irizarry

Published:
5:12 PM CST January 23, 2019

Updated:
5:39 PM CST January 23, 2019

SAN ANTONIO — It's said that every happy home has a foundation of love and a framework of support. Though that may be true for Angel Gonzalez, it's also a puzzle that requires the smallest pieces to complete.

"A fun puzzle," Gonzalez said with a laugh.

The MacArthur High School senior on Wednesday was working to change the lives of those in his community, joining dozens of classmates in installing electrical wiring for four Habitat for Humanity homes.

The hands-on experience is part of a partnership between MacArthur's electrical apprenticeship program and the nonprofit that's been going on for years.

"These families see so many different hands, so many different strangers, that are willing to step out of their personal time and help them," said Bianca Peralta, a marketing specialist with San Antonio Habitat for Humanity.

"I know they're super appreciative; they love seeing young people out here," she said, referring to the families who will benefit from the work.

Those young people love being out there, too. Not only are they making a difference in someone's life; they're making one in their own.

"Using this program really helps me pursue something I will enjoy after high school," Gonzalez said.

The senior said he plans to take his electrical skills to the real world once he graduates, and he won't be alone. MacArthur electrical instructor Eduardo Del Toro told KENS 5 there are plenty of others with the same goals.

"I've got a senior class of 14 guys, and out of 14 I'll probably have eight of them go into the trade," Del Toro said.